Finding the time to exercise with such a busy schedule can be difficult, but did you know it’s possible to integrate exercise into your work day, even if you sit at a desk most of the day?

There are many things you can do to get yourself up and moving during your work day. Here are some creative ways to jump-start your exercise regime:

1. Consider how you commute to work. Walk or bike to work and when that’s not possible, park your car farther from your office so you have to take more steps each day. Also, take the stairs, not the elevator. Remember every step counts!
2. Take Fitness Breaks. Get up from your desk and walk, stretch or even stand. Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
3. Bring a pedometer to work to keep track of how many steps you take. This will allow you to set a goal and stick to it.
4. Keep fitness equipment in your work area. Store stretchy resistance bands or hand weights near your desk. Keeping such equipment handy will increase your chances of using them on your breaks.
5. Organize a social lunchtime walk. It’s likely that you aren’t the only one at work with a desire to incorporate more exercise. Putting together a group of colleagues to walk with a few times each week, will increase the likelihood that you continue to exercise regularly.
6. Take time out to stretch. It’s even more beneficial and important that people who have a mostly sedentary job stretch regularly. Doing so will help increase blood flow and stretch muscles. Even something as simple as a wrist or ankle stretch is beneficial.
7. Make sure to stand whenever possible. Standing burns more calories than sitting, so when you can, stand and work or stand and eat!
8. Utilize your office chair. You can use your office chair to do some simple exercises. For example a chair squat is just one exercise that you can do using your office chair. Make sure that your chair is in a stable position before you begin any exercises.